I wasn't planning on starting a new story while I'm still writing the Sequel to How to Love Someone the Right Way, but it just kind of happened. With this new story the chapters will be longer and I will not be publishing every day like my other story. I hope you like this story, I'm having a great time writing this and pulling inspiration from a good friend of mine that is going through treatment right now.

Also thank you to SuzQuz Grey for believing in this story and for being an amazing editor!

Happy Reading and please let me think with a review!

I'm 24 years old; I shouldn't be hearing this news. I sit in shock as Dr. Warren goes over my test results of my lumpectomy. I officially have breast cancer, and I'm all alone. What am I going to do?

I don't hear the words coming out of his mouth. The only words I can recognize are cancer, Stage Three, chemotherapy and mastectomy. He told me that it was probably nothing but a benign tumor; I never thought the lump in my right breast would turn out to be cancer. I didn't even bother to tell anyone including my mother; let alone my best friend or boyfriend.

"Anastasia, do you have any questions," Dr. Warren asks folding his hands on the desk in front of him. How do I answer that? I'm scared. I don't want to do die; I have so much life let to life.

"What are my chances of beating this, since it's so advanced?" I close my eyes and hold my breath. I'm not sure if I want to hear his answer.

"We caught it before it has spread to your lymph nodes, but I'm going to be honest with you, this will be a hard road. You need the love and support of your family and friends. You can't do this alone."

Why won't he give me a clear answer?

"I need to know Dr. Warren; do I have a good shot at beating this?"

"Yes, you can, but we are going to have to make an important decision very soon about the course of treatment. I would like to see you next week to discuss your options. Please schedule the appointment with the nurse."

I walk back to my car and just sit there looking down at my phone. I scroll through my photos of the past month and start to cry when I land on the photo of Christian and me smiling after a day on the boat. Oh God, how am I going to tell him? We haven't even been dating a month, and for me to spring this on him, that's not fair to him. The last thing I want is for him to stay with me out of pity or guilt. This just complicates our relationship even further. Why is this happening to me?

As I begin to drive, it's all a blur. The next thing I know is I'm driving to Escala and I have no idea how I got here or why I'm here. I know Christian won't be home for a few hours, so maybe it's good that he's not home.

"Ana, is everything okay?" Gail asks as I storm through the elevator.

"No, but one day I hope it will be." I respond as I nearly lose it. I make it to Christian's room and find my bag in the closet and throw everything in it.

Do I leave him a note, or do I wait for him to come home and tell him in person? I sit on the bed and begin to cry. I walk over to my work bag and grab a sheet of paper and a pen and begin to draft Christian a letter. I look at the blank sheet forever before I start to write. How do I even begin to write a letter like this? My hand is shaking; I don't think I can do this.

Once I'm finished I fold the paper in half and write Christian's name on the front and then lay it on his pillow.

I walk out of the room and look over my shoulder one last time at this room. This is where I lost my virginity, and where Christian first told me he loved me for the first time. Now, I'm ending this in the room where it all started.

Gail is nowhere to be found when I hit the button for the elevator and I'm grateful. I don't know how I can tell her goodbye.

When the elevator dings and the doors open, I'm greeted by Christian who looks panicked.

"Anastasia, where are you going?"

To see his face look concerned, I have to try to keep from breaking down again.

"I'm leaving Christian," I whisper as I try to get into the elevator. I can't tell him all of this in person. I'm a coward so that's why I left him the note.

"You promised you were never going to leave me," he says standing emerging from the elevator.

"I know, I'm sorry."

"Whatever I did, I'm sorry. I can't lose you, I love you."

I'm desperate to keep my composure. All I want to do is throw my arms around this perfect man and tell him what is really going on with me, but I can't and I just need to go home and never see him again.

"I think it best that we just end this," I say and I can't even look him in the eye.

"Why?"

"Because I can't be what you need me to be Christian?"

"You are exactly what I need Anastasia. What more to have to do to convince you?"

He doesn't have to do anything because I'm so hopelessly in love with him, and I know that I could never love anyone the way I love this man standing in front of me.

"Nothing."

Then I see a smile form on his face.

"Marry me Anastasia," he pronounces.

This can't be happening. If it were any other day I would say yes in a heartbeat. Hell, I want to say yes. My whole body is screaming for me to accept but I can't.

I start to walk past Christian but he grabs my arm.

"I asked you a question Anastasia."

I know I'm breaking his heart and I don't have the heart to say no.

"I'm sorry, but I can't marry you Christian."

He lets go of my arm and I nearly fall forward into the elevator, but I catch myself. I turn around and look at him for the last time.

"Goodbye Christian," I say and my breath hitches on his name.

"Anastasia, please don't do this." Those are the last words I hear him say while I see the tears streaming down his face as the doors close.

Why was that more difficult than hearing the news that I have cancer?

As I put my bags into my car, I think about the first time I laid eyes on Mr. Christian Grey and that's the first time since this morning that I've smiled.

I've been working with Coping Together as the Director of Marketing & Communication for the past six months and tonight is the night of our annual masquerade gala at the home of the non-profit's founders Carrick and Grace Grey.

I've been here since the early morning making sure that everything is perfect and in place for tonight. As I head into the house to get dressed I'm greeted by Mia, the Grey's youngest child who has quickly become one of my closest friends. So close in fact that we just have moved into a condo together.

"I have a surprise for you Ana," she says leading me upstairs.

That is never a good sign. Mia is so unpredictable, and that's probably why I like her so much.

"Surprise!" She announces and hanging up on the wall is the most elegant silver full-length beaded gown.

"Mia, what have you done?"

"Please don't say no. I went to a lot of work finding just the perfect dress for you."

"I can't accept this."

"Yes you can. Besides it just on loan so it's not a gift. It's courtesy of a local designer. Look I'm wearing one of her dresses too."

Who am I to say no to such a beautiful dress?

"Thank you Mia."

She's overjoyed and maybe a little shocked that I agreed so quickly.

After showering and Mia's glam squad doing my hair and make-up, I slip into the dress and look at myself in the mirror.

Wow Steele, you do clean up nice.

I've never felt like this before. I feel like a whole new person. The dress fits me perfectly. I hope my feet can hold up tonight, these heels are killer.

"Ana, you look gorgeous," Mia says as I come out of the guest room. Mia is a sight to be seen. She looks unbelievable in her red strapless mermaid dress that is very similar to mine. It looks spectacular against her porcelain skin and raven black hair.

I blush at her very nice compliment.

"You are going to get a lot of bids during the first date auction tonight," she says.

Wait a minute, I didn't volunteer for the auction.

"What are you talking about?"

"Don't be mad, but I added you."

"Mia…" I try to get out of this, but Mia cuts me off.

"It's for the kids Ana. Besides its just one dance; you don't have to marry the guy."

"Fine."

Mia hands me a matching mask before we head downstairs where we are greeted by Mr. and Mrs. Grey and their oldest son Elliott.

"Looking good Steele," Elliott says. I've always like Elliott. He was amazing when he helped me move from my tiny studio apartment into the condo. "I wish that I had a date as beautiful as you."

Now I'm really blushing.

"Where is your date, by the way?" Mia says looking around.

"Kate couldn't make it. She just canceled on me because of some breaking news story that she has to cover, but she said she was going to try to make it later."

I've never met Kate, but I know from Mia that she doesn't like her. When I ask her why she says it's just a feeling that she has.

"Well, you can be Ana's and my date?"

"I'm one lucky man," he says leading us out to the gala.

I'm at the gala tonight as a working guest so I manage the press line as our VIP guests begin to arrive. I'm in the middle of the red carpet when there is a commotion at the start.

What is going on?

As I get closer I see the flashbulbs going off like crazy then when I hear the name, it all makes sense.

"Mr. Grey, why no date tonight?"

It's none other than Christian Grey, one of the world's richest men. Just last week he was named America's Most Eligible Bachelor. He is also my roommate's older brother, and the reason why this non-profit was founded.

I've never met Christian in person; I've only spoken to him over the phone a few times as he is largest benefactor. Last year alone he donated $10 million to us. I don't know why I'm so nervous to walk up to him. I've seen his picture everywhere and by far, he is the most beautiful man I've never seen, but I'm here to do a job and not to drool.

"Mr. Grey, I'm Ana Steele. I have a few reporters who would like to ask you a few questions if you will follow me," I say with all the confidence in the world. He is dressed in a stunning black tuxedo and elaborate black mask that hides just his eyes.

"Ms. Steele, so we finally meet," he says as I lead the way. "Might I say you look rather beautiful tonight?"

Did he just say what I think he said? Keep it together Steele; he is your boss's son.

"Thank you sir."

I lead him to the private interview area and I stay close to him so he is not interrupted.

After 10 minutes, I thank the media for coming and thank Mr. Grey for his comments, and he begins to move into the tented area.

I have to stay behind to wrap up the press conference. When I'm through I'm shocked to find Christian Grey waiting there.

"Is there anything you need Mr. Grey?"

"No, I was just watching you in action. You handled yourself very nicely with the press, and I'm impressed."

Wow, I know I can feel my face blush.

"Let me know if you are ever in need of a new job, because I know I could use your expertise at my company."

"I appreciate that Mr. Grey, but I think I've got a great thing going here."

"From what my mother says, you have been the best thing to ever happen to Coping Together."

Now, he's just messing with me.

"Well, I don't know about that."

"I do. Let me know, because I will double or triple your salary."

"Christian Trevelyan Grey, are you trying to steal my most prized employee away from me?" Grace says meeting us at the entrance to the Gala.

"Why mother, you weren't supposed to hear that, but yes. I'm quite impressed with Ms. Steele, and I was just about to tell her about the benefits of working for me."

"Don't worry Grace, I'm not going anywhere," I say as I look over at Christian and offer him an apologetic smile.

"For now," I think I hear Christian mutter before disappearing into the crowd.

"Ana, I know my son can be quite charming, but I will do whatever it takes to keep you on board," she says looking forward.

"I have no intention of going anywhere. I love working with Coping Together."

"I'm very glad to hear that, in your short time with us, you have brought so much besides donations to Coping Together, and I'm forever grateful for you."

"Well, I believe in Coping Together and I know we can take it to a whole new level."

"From your lips to God's ears," she says and with that we both walk inside.

After checking in with all of our major donors, I make my way over to my table. I'm surprised to see that my seat has been changed. That's strange, because I was the one who did the seating chart.

"Ms. Steele, it would appear that you are sitting right here," I hear his voice again from behind me. I turn around and find Christian Grey pointing to my place card positioned right next to him.

"I believe I was seated right here Mr. Grey," I say.

"Well, I made that guest an offer they couldn't refuse so I guess you're stuck with me."

What the hell is going on?

He pulls out my chair so there's no way I can turn him down now.

"Should I thank you for stealing my seat?"

"I think you should thank me."

"And why would that be?"

"I'm saving you from sitting next to Joseph Atkins."

"Mr. Atkins just happens to be a major benefactor, not up to your level of course, but he's very important to Coping Together."

"Well, I guess you don't know the real Mr. Atkins. He will be all over you tonight as he has a fondness for young attractive women, and it appears that Mrs. Atkins isn't with him tonight as he's already on his third glass of scotch."

"I can take care of myself."

"Oh I believe you can, but I would just like to keep a closer eye on you, if you don't mind."

This really has to be a dream. Why would Christian Grey be interested in me? Come on, I'm me and well, he's him. He's like a copper-haired God.

Suddenly I get very nervous as he takes his seat next to me. His hand grazes my arm as he helps pushes my chair in and the feeling is almost electric causing goose bumps to form all over my body.

I can barely eat as I can feel the stare of Christian Grey on me during dinner and dessert. We exchange a few glances, but I'm silent for nearly an hour.

"Ana is something wrong? You're very quiet," Grace asks as we are plated our dessert.

"Just thinking about what I need to do next, that's all."

"Ana, you work too hard. You need to relax and have fun."

"I agree," Christian says next to me, and I can feel his hot breath on my skin. Why does this man have such an effect on me?

My mind begins to wander. Could the Christian Grey be interested in someone like me?

"Ana?"

"Yes," I look up to see who called my name, and see Mia trying to get my attention.

"Are you ready for the auction?"

"I guess so."

I stand up and the rest of the men at our table also rise.

"So my sister convinced you to take part in this very barbaric tradition?" Christian asks trying to stifle a laugh.

"It would appear so."

"Well, the gentleman that wins your honor will be quite pleased."

I don't understand him.

As Mia and I walk on stage I anxiously await my turn.

"Now, I would like to welcome the very attractive Ana to come forward," the MC announces and Mia practically pushes me to the front.

"Miss Ana is one of tonight's organizers, so please increase your bids as your way to thank her. Miss Ana is not only stunning, but she is very intelligent and she speaks five languages fluently. She is also very flexible thanks to her years as a gymnast and yoga training. Now, would we say about starting the bidding at $10,000?"

"$10,000," comes from Mr. Joseph Atkins. Oh God, maybe Christian was right.

"$15,000," says Elliott who is seated next to Christian and smiles at me.

"$25,000," Christian bids.

I can't believe it.

$50,000," Mr. Atkins says.

Someone please save me.

"$75,000," Elliott says looking right into Christian's face.

"$100,000," Christian says.

"$150,000," Elliot counterbids. Is this really happening?

$500,000," Christian says.

You've got to be kidding me.

"Sold to Mr. Christian Grey."

As I walk off the stage I can't feel my legs, they are like Jell-O.

There is no way I can walk back to our table; I can't face Christian right now.

"It looks like you need a drink?" I look back and see Elliott grinning from ear to ear.

"Do you want to tell me what that little show was all about?" I say slamming down the champagne.

"You know that's not water?"

"Will you hand me another one?"

"Slow down Tiger."

"Spill Elliott."

"At first I was just trying to save you from good old Joe and his wandering hands, but apparently my little brother didn't like me bidding on you so I decided to make him pay."

"Why would you do that?" I say sipping my champagne this time.

"You really can't tell can you?"

"Tell what?"

"Oh I think I will just let you find that out on your own."

"Elliott," I call out but he's already gone.

I go and check in with Meredith who is running the silent auction. I need to find something to keep my mind off what Elliott has said, or rather not said.

"Ana, I have been looking all over for you. They are about to start the first dance and you need to be out there." Mia exclaims and pulls me back into the main tent.

"I thought you left me Ms. Steele," Christian says when we find him waiting for me, I think.

"I had to get some work done. I wasn't going anywhere," I say and I'm not sure if I'm telling the complete truth.

"Well, may I have this dance?" He asks extending his hand. Tentatively I put my hand into his and I feel that twinge of electricity again. I can tell that he was affected too.

He leads me onto the dance floor and places his other hand on the small of my back.

I don't even remember hearing the music, or if there were any other people on the dance floor. All I can see right now is him and I, and it's perfect.

As the song goes on, I can feel Christian pulling me closer to him. I inhale his scent and I'm in heaven right now. I would be a millionaire if I could bottle this scent.

"May I get another dance," Christian asks as the song finally ends and it was all too short.

I'm desperate to staying his arms forever, but I need to get back to work.

"I need to get back to my job," I say pulling away.

"Did you hear my mother? She said you need to enjoy tonight."

I guess just one more dance wouldn't hurt.

One more dance turned into the two of us spending the rest of the night on the dance floor.

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your amazing donations. Tonight's event raised $1.9 million."

"Congratulations, Ms. Steele," Christian whispers in my ear.

I feel the emotion of tonight come to a head. I can't believe we shattered our goal by nearly half a million dollars.

"I'm serious about my offer to come work with me. Is there anything I can do to change your mind?"

"I'm sorry."

"Would you at least do me the honor of coming out to watch the fireworks with me?"

Who am I to say no to an offer like that?

As we walk out of the tent and closer to the water, I'm greeted by a very cool breeze. I wish I brought my coat.

"Let me," Christian says as he places his coat on my shoulders.

"Thank you."

We watch the fireworks in silence until the crowd cheers bringing me back to reality.

We walk back into the house and are greeted by Carrick and Grace.

"Ana, you are amazing. Thank for you everything you did tonight!" Grace says hugging me. "We are very lucky to have you as part of Coping Together, and I hope that you have found a home with us."

"I'm here as long as you want me."

I go upstairs and change my clothes before coming downstairs to head home.

"Ms. Steele, may I offer you a ride home?"

"I came with Mia."

"She just left."

How could she leave without me?

"Thank you for the offer Mr. Grey, but I can't trouble you for a ride."

"It's no trouble. Besides, you live only a few minutes from me."

I can tell I will not win so I accept Mr. Grey's offer.

Christian's personal bodyguard takes my bags as he leads me to the waiting black SUV.

As we drive back to my place, Christian looks at me but says nothing.

"I had a wonderful time with you tonight," he finally says.

"I did too. I think the event was a success."

"Clearly, thanks in large part to you."

Finally, we pull up to the right of my building and I try to open the door, but I can't. When I look back at Christian he's nowhere to be found. In the blink of an eye he has my door open and holds out his hand.

Part of me wants Christian to kiss me, but I don't want to be disappointed if he doesn't.

"Goodnight Ms. Steele," he says as he walks with me and opens the door.

"Thank you." I walk through the door and straight to the elevator. I don't have the heart to turn back.

I set my keys on the table when I walk inside and Mia's not home. I go straight to my room, and realize I'm glad that she's not here.

I look around my room and I remove everything that reminds me of Christian and our brief time together.